Was watching an old production of Othello, actually the Verdi opera Otello.
Placido Domingo is in blackface. I am seriously trying to determine if this is bad and how far the political correctness of it needs to go. The make up made me a bit uncomfortable
Can a white person never play Othello? Could they without the blackface? Are classics, like Shakespeare exempted? and I am totally excusing movies like Tropic Thunder or Soul Man. or more experimental theater like Hamilton.
Now if Othello is acceptable, where do you draw the line? Miss Saigon, should Asian roles only be Asian. Again, does the make-up become the issue?
Now expand it the Trans people, gay people, less visible ethnic mixtures, even if someone is the right ethnic mix, but does look dark enough or Asian enough. Religion? Is it ok for Rachel Brosnahan to play Mrs. Maisel
Historically, I have no issue portraying a Vaudeville performer in blackface as that is what happened I do have issues with something that is intended as a historical piece having black roles where they make no sense historicallyâŚ
Lastly, if race is never an issue, is it ok to use a black person in a traditional white role - A James Bond, or a classic TV role? Would it also be ok for a white person in a traditionally black role, Alex Cross as white in a movie.
In some ways I believe it is a slippery slope. Saying Cis canât pay Trans, does that mean Trans canât play Cis? I get the concept of trying to cast appropriately, but can it never be violated?
In Shakespeare black people have played traditionally white roles but Othello is one of the few color matters in the plot. I am really torn on this